Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Property class: 2

Photo gallery for Islander Motel Santa Cruz

A hotel room with a bed, bedside tables, a chair, and a desk.
A natural rock arch formation with a clear view of the ocean and a sunset in the background.
A hotel lobby with a reception desk, a coffee machine, a framed picture, a chair, and a window.
A motel with a swimming pool, a sign indicating vacancy, and amenities like cable TV, HBO, AC in rooms, and free WiFi.
A parking lot with a swimming pool, a white car, and a building with a balcony.

Reviews

8.4 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Housekeeping
  • 24/7 front desk
The current price is AU$125
includes taxes & fees
20 Sept - 21 Sept

Explore the area

View map
522 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060
  • Place, Ocean Street
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Pacific Avenue
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪58 min drive‬

Room options

Family Room

  • 18 sq m
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Bed

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking

  • 14 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(36 reviews)
  • 14 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(10 reviews)
  • 14 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Family Room, 2 Bedrooms, Non Smoking

  • 14 sq m
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 King Bed

Room

  • Sleeps 4

Room

  • Sleeps 4

Room

  • Sleeps 4

You may also like

About the area

Santa Cruz

Islander Motel Santa Cruz puts you in the heart of Santa Cruz, within a 20-minute stroll of Mission Santa Cruz and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Highlights at this motel include free in-room WiFi. .This smoke-free motel offers free WiFi in public areas, a 24-hour front desk and a vending machine. Plus you'll find a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. There's also the convenience of free self parking. .With a stay at this Westside Santa Cruz motel, you'll be 2.5 km (1.6 mi) from Monterey Bay and 3.1 km (1.9 mi) from Santa Cruz Surfing Museum.

What's nearby

  • Ocean Street - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Pacific Avenue - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Mission Santa Cruz - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Santa Cruz Wharf - 2 min drive - 2.2 km

Getting around

  • San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.) - 42 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Pizza My Heart - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Taqueria Los Pericos - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Jack in the Box - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Pacific Cookie Company - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Woodstock's Pizza Santa Cruz - ‬9 min walk

About this property

Islander Motel Santa Cruz

As a guest of Islander Motel Santa Cruz, you'll find a seasonal outdoor pool and a vending machine. WiFi is free in public spaces. Free self parking is available. You'll have access to the health club at a partner property.

This Santa Cruz motel is smoke free.

  • 1 building
  • 22 guestrooms or units
  • 2 levels
  • Built in 1963
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • No smoking on site
Islander Motel Santa Cruz offers 22 air-conditioned accommodations with a hairdryer and an iron/ironing board. Beds feature Egyptian cotton sheets and premium bedding. 32-inch flat-screen televisions come with premium cable channels. Bathrooms include baths or showers and complimentary toiletries.

Guests can surf the web using the complimentary wireless Internet access (speed: 25+ Mbps). Business-friendly amenities include desks and telephones; free local calls are provided (restrictions may apply). Housekeeping is provided on a daily basis.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 25+ Mbps
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Free self parking on site
  • Limited on-site self parking

Things to do

  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • Fenced pool
  • In-room microwave
  • Mini-fridge
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Grab bar near toilet (84 centimetre high)
  • No lift
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)

More

  • 1 building
  • 2 floors
  • Built in 1963
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Traditional architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Egyptian cotton sheets

Bathroom

  • Bathtub or shower
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 32-inch flat-screen TV with premium cable channels

Food and drink

  • Microwave
  • Mini-fridge

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; check-in end time: midnight

Early check-in subject to availability

Early check-in fee: USD 25

Late check-in subject to availability

Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Late check-out subject to availability

Late check-out fee: USD 50.00

Special check-in instructions

Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation

Prior to arrival, you must complete online registration via a secure link

You will be asked to provide the property with a copy of your government-issued photo ID after booking

If you are planning to arrive after noon please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation

The credit card used to book the reservation must be presented by the cardholder at check-in along with matching photo identification, and other arrangements must be coordinated with the property prior to arrival

For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • No pets allowed, but service animals are welcome

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Kids stay free! One child aged 5 years old or younger stays free per registered adult when using existing bedding.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cots (infant beds) are not available.

Payment types

Important information

Fees

Guests will be asked to pay the following charges at the property:

  • Deposit: USD 100 per accommodation, per stay

We've listed all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Early check-in fee: USD 25 (subject to availability)
  • Late check-out fee: USD 50.00 (subject to availability)

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards and mobile payments; cash is not accepted
Mobile payment options include: Google Pay and Apple Pay
This property reserves the right to pre-authorise the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector and a first aid kit
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit or credit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guest room reservation. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, mobile payments, Google Pay and Apple Pay. Cash is not accepted. This property reserves the right to pre-authorise the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
    For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector and a first aid kit in all accommodation.

We should mention

  • The seasonal pool will open on 15 May and close on 31 October.
  • One child aged 5 years old or younger stays free per registered adult in the same room as the parent or guardian when using existing bedding.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed to be in guestrooms.
  • Alcohol isn't served at Islander Motel Santa Cruz.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Islander Santa Cruz

The Islander Motel

The Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Islander Santa Cruz Santa Cruz

Islander Motel Santa Cruz Motel

Islander Motel Santa Cruz Santa Cruz

Islander Motel Santa Cruz Motel Santa Cruz

Frequently asked questions

What is the cancellation policy at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

Islander Motel Santa Cruz offers free cancellation on select room rates. Check out the cancellation policy for more info.

How much does it cost to stay at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

As of 19 Sept 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Islander Motel Santa Cruz on 20 Sept 2026 start from AU$125, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is parking available at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

Yep, Islander Motel Santa Cruz has a free self car park.

Are there any beaches close to Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

Yep, Islander Motel Santa Cruz is a short 19-minute walk from Santa Cruz Main Beach.

Does Islander Motel Santa Cruz have a pool?

Islander Motel Santa Cruz has a seasonal outdoor pool. The pool is open from May 15 to October 31.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

No, Islander Motel Santa Cruz does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM. Check-out time is 11:00 AM.

Are pets allowed at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

No, only service animals are allowed.

Islander Motel Santa Cruz Reviews

Reviews

8.4

Very good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 500 out of 1026 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 356 out of 1026 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 87 out of 1026 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 30 out of 1026 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 53 out of 1026 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Staff & service

8.0/10

Amenities

8.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Maria

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Had a wonderful stay thank you
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

CARLA

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We enjoyed our stay. All staff were helpful and able to accommodate an additional night’s stay.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Donna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good place to stay. The room is a bit cramped but it was clean and the bed was comfortable.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Conor

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location and the room was clean. Would stay there again.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Julian

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
clean room, good location, attentive staff
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sarah

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great staff, fairly comfy bed, convienent
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Laura

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This motel/hotel was super super clean, with nice bathrooms and very comfortable beds. Would come back in a heartbeat!
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Patie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Whenever I come to Santa Cruz, I always stay at this motel. Great staff the room is comfortable always clean. Highly recommend.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Christina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Place was clean and everyone was very nice. Only thing to update is windows to keep out traffic noise. A good place between the beach and downtown.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Alex

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean and renovated room.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Yuma

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good place to stay if you need to sleep. It’s just fine. Staff is friendly and the property feels pretty safe. Great for the price and location.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Amanda

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was clean and the beds were comfy. Parking was a little bit tight, but the location is central to everything Santa Cruz, and feels quiet and safe at night. ☺️
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

AmyJune

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Love this hotel
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Nancy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Parking was tight but doable. Room pleasant and clean. Staff very friendly. Keurig coffee available in morning. Wonderful bakery/cafe walking distance for breakfast, The Buttery. Nice Deli across the street.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Anna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Check in and check out was both good by a nice Lady, Coffee was really good, room was clean and also a nice comfortable bed . It was definitely worth the price I would say
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Yi

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean, cozy and close to everything
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

William

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Had a great stay here at the Islander. The room was clean and smelled good, the staff was friendly and helpful, and check-in and check-out were easy. Great stay!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Frances

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was nice and clean. Nice staff. We didn't like waiting 30 minutes for our room to be finished at check in.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Dustin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Great place
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Allen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fast check in/checkout. Great rooms. Easy parking. Friendly and helpful staff
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Christopher

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Older motel with clean rooms... Parking was a bit tight, but we managed. One of the MOST comfortable beds I've ever slept in a motel. The room was unusually dark, which was amazing.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Julia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was lovely and the location was great but it smelled like bleach and the AC was suuuuper loud.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

AmyJune

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Always nice to stay here when we're in Santa Cruz. We love how convenient the location is to downtown. And the staff is so lovely and remember which room we like to stay in.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

alison

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Parking on site and free. Check in was simple. Staff was super friendly. Nice pool. Very convenient location.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Anita

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The room was spotless as always. Check in and out was effortless and managers were pleasant and accommodating. We will definitely stay here again!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026